* Infant parent bonding
* Relaxation
* Makes baby feel loved
* Promotes better sleep
* Facilitates body awareness
* Boosts immune system
* Sensory stimulation
* Improves skin condition
* Improves blood circulation
* Helps digestion
* Balances respiration
* Relief for teething pains
* Helps with stooling
* Helps you learn about your baby's needs and desires
* Relaxes parents
* Helps build baby's and parents' self esteem
* Pleasurable experience
I was interested in taking the infant massage class because I had no doubt Evelyn would like it...since her mommy loves a good massage every now and then. The infant massage class was two evening sessions. We were in a class with five other adorable babies (ages 8 weeks to 7 months).
When the class began, the instructor talked about all the benefits of infant massage. Then she walked us through each technique, starting with the legs and feet. The moment I started massaging Evelyn's legs, she got this look on her face and she just stared at me as I massaged her thigh and calf. It was the most adorable thing to see her go from kicking and playing to calm and focused. I continued to massage both legs and her feet as she stared at me. Then the instructor had us move to the abdomen. This is when I saw Evelyn start to drift to sleep. Seriously...she fell asleep as I massage her tummy. It was so sweet. The instructor couldn't believe it. :)
Since completing the class, I have been doing infant massage with Evelyn a few times a week and she continues to love it. I enjoy it too. It doesn't always induce sleep, but she does relax and I am sure it feels good on her busy, growing body. I have been using Burt's Bees baby oil. It smells great and is all natural.
Here are some pictures from our massage session today.
